I sent the kids out the door this morning in picture day clothing. William is growing like a weed and seems to follow the "growing overnight" schedule. He went off in some khaki cargo pants and a light blue polo shirt. His class has a field trip following the photos so I had to send the class t-shirt (You know, the one with the school phone number on it just in case! LOL!) so the teacher could change him.
Here is the big change I noticed...about a week ago Jordan approached me about the photos. She wanted to make sure that I would do her hair on hot rollers for picture day. We did that for the Father-Daughter dance and she was thrilled with the results. I guess she wants to immortalize it in a 5th grade school photo. Funny thing was that she said it was too bad that the fall photos were used for the yearbook. At least the hair decision was easier than the clothing decision. I see this being an issue far too soon.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Sunday, March 23, 2008
easter photos
We had a great Easter weekend. On Saturday there were two egg hunts (neighborhood + church) and a soccer game. Following that we had some friends from our old Navy days come through on their spring break. We've known Kent and Melissa for almost 18 years and it was so great to see them again. The last time we saw them was for their shipmate's funeral after 9/11 -- six years ago. They came in Saturday afternoon and we shared a southern meal of "Who loves ya baby back ribs" on the screened porch. The weather was beautiful and since they had left Ohio with snow they were thrilled to be nearing the 80s. They stayed overnight and we had lots of fun watching the kids tear into their easter goodies on Sunday morning together.
Here is a snapshot of Kent and Melissa's boys with Grace and Jordan. We quickly threw a kids table together once we saw how excited they were to dine outside.
Old shipmates, Dave and Kent:
Our Easter morning photo. As you can see it is difficult to get all three smiling sincerely at once. I got two out of three in this photo and considered that a success. They absolutely refused to do retakes this afternoon. Grace had begun the morning with a smocked orange dress. As I was completing my makeup she comes into my bathroom showing me where she got dry erase marker on the front. She was playing with a new toy of William's. (Any secret solutions to clean that???) I threw another dress on her and we headed out the door.
I did finally get a smile out of her at church with her first grade friend, Adelaide.
How was your weekend?
Here is a snapshot of Kent and Melissa's boys with Grace and Jordan. We quickly threw a kids table together once we saw how excited they were to dine outside.
Old shipmates, Dave and Kent:
Our Easter morning photo. As you can see it is difficult to get all three smiling sincerely at once. I got two out of three in this photo and considered that a success. They absolutely refused to do retakes this afternoon. Grace had begun the morning with a smocked orange dress. As I was completing my makeup she comes into my bathroom showing me where she got dry erase marker on the front. She was playing with a new toy of William's. (Any secret solutions to clean that???) I threw another dress on her and we headed out the door.
I did finally get a smile out of her at church with her first grade friend, Adelaide.
How was your weekend?
Saturday, March 22, 2008
resurrection
With all the Easter fun today I felt the need to remind myself of the true meaning of the holiday. The beauty of this gift give freely to us is that we can access it all year long. No need to wait for a holiday to celebrate the completion of a promise made long before Jesus lived on this earth. Because of this promise fulfilled we have a grace given to us beyond our wildest wishes. No need for an Easter bonnet to celebrate that!
The Resurrection
1When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus' body. 2Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb 3and they asked each other, "Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?"
4But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away. 5As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed.
6"Don't be alarmed," he said. "You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. 7But go, tell his disciples and Peter, 'He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.' " ~Mark 16: 1-7
The Resurrection
1When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus' body. 2Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb 3and they asked each other, "Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?"
4But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away. 5As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed.
6"Don't be alarmed," he said. "You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. 7But go, tell his disciples and Peter, 'He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.' " ~Mark 16: 1-7
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
the importance of girlfriends
Today we were at Dave's office. We delivered a bbq lunch to him since he had a day full of teleconferences. Grace thought it was awesome to visit Daddy in the middle of the day. Dave sent Grace on a little mission to the office of a friend named Donna. Donna is known to have the candy stash so Dave sent Grace after a little treat. Nothing like a little girl with pigtails showing up in your office to beg.
Dave and I ended up following Grace to eavesdrop. We hung out with Donna for a few minutes and I asked what trips she had in the works. Donna is so cool because she travels for pleasure several times a year. She's single and I like to live vicariously through her. She's talking about three dream trips (You know, a Mediterranean cruise, a trip to Mexico, and a quick jaunt to Northern California) so Dave asks if her boyfriend is going on any of these. Turns out that they are all girlfriend trips. Dave looks perplexed. Donna and I exchange glances and laugh. Dave wanted to know why an all girlfriend trip is such a popular thing. Donna and I laugh again. She says that she prefers to travel with her friends.
Now if you've been off with a set of girlfriends it is almost guaranteed that you can relax and have a few laughs while shopping or just doing nothing. Girlfriends don't mind going to an art gallery. They don't mind just sitting on a bench and talking. Discussions are long and intense...the kind that most men abhor. No hurry, no deadline other than the occasional movie or dinner reservation. After living in Georgia for five years I am beginning to develop some new girlfriend friendships to enjoy. I've got friends all over the country I enjoy already from military days, work, and motherhood. Our little conversation with Donna reminded me today that I need to keep investing in those relationships, both near and far. One day this chaos will quieten down a bit and I hope to have lots of friends with whom I've laughed with along the way.
Dave and I ended up following Grace to eavesdrop. We hung out with Donna for a few minutes and I asked what trips she had in the works. Donna is so cool because she travels for pleasure several times a year. She's single and I like to live vicariously through her. She's talking about three dream trips (You know, a Mediterranean cruise, a trip to Mexico, and a quick jaunt to Northern California) so Dave asks if her boyfriend is going on any of these. Turns out that they are all girlfriend trips. Dave looks perplexed. Donna and I exchange glances and laugh. Dave wanted to know why an all girlfriend trip is such a popular thing. Donna and I laugh again. She says that she prefers to travel with her friends.
Now if you've been off with a set of girlfriends it is almost guaranteed that you can relax and have a few laughs while shopping or just doing nothing. Girlfriends don't mind going to an art gallery. They don't mind just sitting on a bench and talking. Discussions are long and intense...the kind that most men abhor. No hurry, no deadline other than the occasional movie or dinner reservation. After living in Georgia for five years I am beginning to develop some new girlfriend friendships to enjoy. I've got friends all over the country I enjoy already from military days, work, and motherhood. Our little conversation with Donna reminded me today that I need to keep investing in those relationships, both near and far. One day this chaos will quieten down a bit and I hope to have lots of friends with whom I've laughed with along the way.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
a small gift
Oh my goodness, I think I've just had a true heart to heart with my big girl. Not that we haven't had serious talks before, but this one came out of nowhere and was simply "what was on her mind" in subject matter. Know what she was worried and upset about? How complex all the friendships and hierarchies were becoming in school. How people are different between school and home. How she doesn't really know what tier she fits into among her peers. Gulp and double gulp.
My heart ached for her. She has friends, lots of friends, but those relationships are becoming more complicated. Girls and their insecurities become very pronounced at the end of elementary school. I didn't discount her concerns or patronize her. I know the frustration is real. She's gotten ridiculed for befriending a few outcasts or new people. She knows its the right thing to do and yet cannot understand why others are being petty. She feels different because of the way she processes ideas and approaches problems.
I still wonder why certain people are still playing these games into their 40's, don't you? I've often felt comfortable among many groups and at the same time I know I am different than others. I suppose we all are never quite a perfect fit...
What a tender hearted almost 11 year old. I pray she will always keep that heart kind and caring, thoughtful and insightful. I dread what is ahead, but as I told her tonight I believe that God has already planned great things for her spiritually and academically in life. Her job is to move through these day to day distractions with that ultimate goal in mind. She was crying thankful tears when we finished. She seemed almost relieved that I had felt these feelings before her. I was reminded tonight that fifth graders have deep worries and concerns just like adults.
My heart ached for her. She has friends, lots of friends, but those relationships are becoming more complicated. Girls and their insecurities become very pronounced at the end of elementary school. I didn't discount her concerns or patronize her. I know the frustration is real. She's gotten ridiculed for befriending a few outcasts or new people. She knows its the right thing to do and yet cannot understand why others are being petty. She feels different because of the way she processes ideas and approaches problems.
I still wonder why certain people are still playing these games into their 40's, don't you? I've often felt comfortable among many groups and at the same time I know I am different than others. I suppose we all are never quite a perfect fit...
What a tender hearted almost 11 year old. I pray she will always keep that heart kind and caring, thoughtful and insightful. I dread what is ahead, but as I told her tonight I believe that God has already planned great things for her spiritually and academically in life. Her job is to move through these day to day distractions with that ultimate goal in mind. She was crying thankful tears when we finished. She seemed almost relieved that I had felt these feelings before her. I was reminded tonight that fifth graders have deep worries and concerns just like adults.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
cinderella, pele, and the ballerina
Here are three photos from last week's events:
Dave and Jordan ready to attend the Girl Scout Father Daughter Dance. Dave took Jordan out on a date that night for a nice meal and then the dance. Apparently Jordan taught him some new dances and they had a great time together.
Grace at her ballet "recital". She takes ballet at the YMCA and they do a skills performance at the end of each session.
William at soccer practice. He really loves the sport so far. It's a true match of his strength and energy level.
Dave and Jordan ready to attend the Girl Scout Father Daughter Dance. Dave took Jordan out on a date that night for a nice meal and then the dance. Apparently Jordan taught him some new dances and they had a great time together.
Grace at her ballet "recital". She takes ballet at the YMCA and they do a skills performance at the end of each session.
William at soccer practice. He really loves the sport so far. It's a true match of his strength and energy level.
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
finding the time
Yesterday I was at soccer practice for William. It's only our second practice so I am getting to know the mothers who were all together last season. I sat there talking with two sweet women who were probably 5 years younger than me. As we spoke the first woman talked about taking time to go on a date with her husband that weekend. The second woman gasp and said that she was never able to find time to either date her husband or ever wanted to leave her dear children. In fact, she said that once she left for a church led women's retreat weekend and came back early because she missed them so much.
I know from previous conversations that this woman homeschools both of her children. That alone is not an issue with me, but I began to wonder if she ever finds a quiet moment for herself or her husband? I suppose it got me thinking about the all consuming nature of motherhood. That is the one thing I was not prepared for when I became a mother. I am thankful that Dave has made our dates a priority thoughout the years. Six years ago, while I was still surrounded by nursing infants and little ones (have I left these stages yet???) he made it clear that we needed to find time for a monthly date. I cannot tell you how much this has meant to me through all these changes. He was right to do this and even more right to encourage me to maintain our relationship as partners.
I'll admit that finding a quiet moment is tricky among our household chaos, but I've been trying to recapture this more often. I need time to study my Bible properly, I need time to pray meaningfully, and I need time to remember who I am outside of Mommy. At first glance this all seems so selfish...but I think we need to feed our minds and souls while still in the midst of motherhood. So, I'm just wondering how you feel about all these things? How do you recharge yourself and your relationship with your husband? Do you think it is important? How do you make time?
I know from previous conversations that this woman homeschools both of her children. That alone is not an issue with me, but I began to wonder if she ever finds a quiet moment for herself or her husband? I suppose it got me thinking about the all consuming nature of motherhood. That is the one thing I was not prepared for when I became a mother. I am thankful that Dave has made our dates a priority thoughout the years. Six years ago, while I was still surrounded by nursing infants and little ones (have I left these stages yet???) he made it clear that we needed to find time for a monthly date. I cannot tell you how much this has meant to me through all these changes. He was right to do this and even more right to encourage me to maintain our relationship as partners.
I'll admit that finding a quiet moment is tricky among our household chaos, but I've been trying to recapture this more often. I need time to study my Bible properly, I need time to pray meaningfully, and I need time to remember who I am outside of Mommy. At first glance this all seems so selfish...but I think we need to feed our minds and souls while still in the midst of motherhood. So, I'm just wondering how you feel about all these things? How do you recharge yourself and your relationship with your husband? Do you think it is important? How do you make time?
Monday, March 03, 2008
weekend wrapup
I'll start the weekend on Thursday so I can mention that my parents (along with one niece, Alana, who is Grace's age) came into town from Alabama to watch Jordan perform her last elementary school chorus event. A friend of mine called it Jordan's Elementary Swan Song...It was a bittersweet moment watching her sing with a group which has been together seriously studying music since third grade. Jordan played several instruments throughout the program and then had the beginning solo in a song titled, "I am but a small voice".
I am but a small voice
I am but a small dream
The fragrance of a flower
in the unpolluted air
I am but a small voice
I am but a small dream
to smile upon the sun
be free to dance and sing
be free to sing my song to everyone
Her voice is so young and pure right now. I'm so proud of her ability to hit her mark during the strenuous requirements of the program and hold herself together during a solo. It was a sweet moment. My only complication that night was that my little bit had to make visits to the bathroom at all the wrong moments. Sigh...such is life with a family. I got to see most everything despite that and thankfully had heard her solo in completion earlier. My parents were thrilled to hear her sing since they love music so much.
On Friday night we went to the Atlanta Hawks basketball game with the YMCA. William played last season and got a free ticket because of that. They offered discounted family tickets so I got four. We ended up leaving Grace with my parents and taking one of William's neighborhood buddies, Jackson. Jordan moaned relentlessly that she did not need to go since she did not enjoy basketball...in fact, she acted like I had punished her by including her on this outing. It was so painful getting everyone out the door that I almost lost my parental cool. By the time we got down there and to our seats all three kids were oohing and aahing over the event. We had eaten at The Varsity prior to the event so we only at snacks there. It's a good thing since just a few snacks and drinks cost us $32! Good to feed the hungry masses before an event like that. I was happy Dave had suggested it. We had a good night seeing something together. It was a decent game against the NY Knicks and the Hawks won. We were way up in the nosebleed section, but we could see all the action. After the game the YMCA group was allowed on the court and got to throw freethrows for a long time. Security was a bit strict, but it was a neat opportunity.
Thankfully there were no sports obligations this weekend so Saturday was pretty much a free day. Saturday night Dave and I attended the Murdock Elementary School Foundation Gala. I had helped on the solicitation committee. Lest your mind wander on that "solicitation" phrase perhaps I should explain that I went out to community businesses and asked for donations of things to be auctioned off on Saturday night. The solicitation group harvested over $40,000 worth of merchandise and services. It was a silent auction held at a nice hotel near the perimeter area. I haven't heard the final totals, but I think things went fairly well. I could not believe that someone paid $400 for a parking space in front of the school...or $2500 for an Italian vacation. It was a cool night. Dave and I were so busy during the auction that we didn't eat much so we slipped off to PF Changs after the event to have a quiet midnight meal together. Dave was an awesome date and we actually enjoyed some time together. Rare nowadays.
Sunday was a good day together. We had an interesting sermon at church and some lively discussion in our small group that night. I said goodbye to my parents and Alana that afternoon and then goodbye to Dave after small group. He's headed out of town until Friday morning to the Seattle area. He made special arrangements to be back in town for the Father Daughter Dance next Friday night with Jordan.
I am but a small voice
I am but a small dream
The fragrance of a flower
in the unpolluted air
I am but a small voice
I am but a small dream
to smile upon the sun
be free to dance and sing
be free to sing my song to everyone
Her voice is so young and pure right now. I'm so proud of her ability to hit her mark during the strenuous requirements of the program and hold herself together during a solo. It was a sweet moment. My only complication that night was that my little bit had to make visits to the bathroom at all the wrong moments. Sigh...such is life with a family. I got to see most everything despite that and thankfully had heard her solo in completion earlier. My parents were thrilled to hear her sing since they love music so much.
On Friday night we went to the Atlanta Hawks basketball game with the YMCA. William played last season and got a free ticket because of that. They offered discounted family tickets so I got four. We ended up leaving Grace with my parents and taking one of William's neighborhood buddies, Jackson. Jordan moaned relentlessly that she did not need to go since she did not enjoy basketball...in fact, she acted like I had punished her by including her on this outing. It was so painful getting everyone out the door that I almost lost my parental cool. By the time we got down there and to our seats all three kids were oohing and aahing over the event. We had eaten at The Varsity prior to the event so we only at snacks there. It's a good thing since just a few snacks and drinks cost us $32! Good to feed the hungry masses before an event like that. I was happy Dave had suggested it. We had a good night seeing something together. It was a decent game against the NY Knicks and the Hawks won. We were way up in the nosebleed section, but we could see all the action. After the game the YMCA group was allowed on the court and got to throw freethrows for a long time. Security was a bit strict, but it was a neat opportunity.
Thankfully there were no sports obligations this weekend so Saturday was pretty much a free day. Saturday night Dave and I attended the Murdock Elementary School Foundation Gala. I had helped on the solicitation committee. Lest your mind wander on that "solicitation" phrase perhaps I should explain that I went out to community businesses and asked for donations of things to be auctioned off on Saturday night. The solicitation group harvested over $40,000 worth of merchandise and services. It was a silent auction held at a nice hotel near the perimeter area. I haven't heard the final totals, but I think things went fairly well. I could not believe that someone paid $400 for a parking space in front of the school...or $2500 for an Italian vacation. It was a cool night. Dave and I were so busy during the auction that we didn't eat much so we slipped off to PF Changs after the event to have a quiet midnight meal together. Dave was an awesome date and we actually enjoyed some time together. Rare nowadays.
Sunday was a good day together. We had an interesting sermon at church and some lively discussion in our small group that night. I said goodbye to my parents and Alana that afternoon and then goodbye to Dave after small group. He's headed out of town until Friday morning to the Seattle area. He made special arrangements to be back in town for the Father Daughter Dance next Friday night with Jordan.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
legacy
Yesterday as I drove to work it was a dreary, rainy day. My "to do" list was growing by the moment and the list of projects -- both personal and professional -- seems monumental at this moment. The temperature felt colder because of the rain and my seat heat made me cozier. Music is such a big part of my life. I've recently found a song which almost insulates me from these day to day issues. It makes a dreary day not so depressing and spurs me to go on with life and my purpose. I've had a few reflective days since my grandfather's death. Do yourself a favor and find Nichole Nordeman's song, "Legacy".
I don't mind if you've got something nice to say about me
And I enjoy an accolade like the rest
You could take my picture and hang it in a gallery
Of all who's who and so-n-so's that used to be the best
At such'n'such ... it wouldn't matter much
I won't lie, it feels alright to see your name in lights
We all need an 'Atta boy' or 'Atta girl'
But in the end I'd like to hang my hat on more besides
The temporary trappings of this world
I want to leave a legacy
How will they remember me?
Did I choose to love? Did I point to You enough
I'd love to make a mark on things
I want to leave an offering
A child of mercy and grace who
blessed your name unapologetically
And leave that kind of legacy
I don't have to look too far or too long awhile
To make a lengthy list of all that I enjoy
It's an accumulating trinket and a treasure pile
Where moth and rust, thieves and such will soon enough destroy...
Not well traveled, not well read, not well-to-do or well bred
Just want to hear instead, "Well Done" good and faithful one...
I don't mind if you've got something nice to say about me
And I enjoy an accolade like the rest
You could take my picture and hang it in a gallery
Of all who's who and so-n-so's that used to be the best
At such'n'such ... it wouldn't matter much
I won't lie, it feels alright to see your name in lights
We all need an 'Atta boy' or 'Atta girl'
But in the end I'd like to hang my hat on more besides
The temporary trappings of this world
I want to leave a legacy
How will they remember me?
Did I choose to love? Did I point to You enough
I'd love to make a mark on things
I want to leave an offering
A child of mercy and grace who
blessed your name unapologetically
And leave that kind of legacy
I don't have to look too far or too long awhile
To make a lengthy list of all that I enjoy
It's an accumulating trinket and a treasure pile
Where moth and rust, thieves and such will soon enough destroy...
Not well traveled, not well read, not well-to-do or well bred
Just want to hear instead, "Well Done" good and faithful one...
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
observations
Seen on the back of a plumbing truck this morning:
"We help you have a Royal Flush even with a Full House!"
And a William observation:
The house across the street is being painted. The first morning of the job we pulled out of our driveway and saw a stack of 10 huge ladders. Problem was the only painter vehicle in sight was a wee tiny two door sedan. William's mouth drops open and then says, "Well I have no idea how that little car even carried those ladders. One of those ladders would tip that car over!"
I had to agree. ;-)
"We help you have a Royal Flush even with a Full House!"
And a William observation:
The house across the street is being painted. The first morning of the job we pulled out of our driveway and saw a stack of 10 huge ladders. Problem was the only painter vehicle in sight was a wee tiny two door sedan. William's mouth drops open and then says, "Well I have no idea how that little car even carried those ladders. One of those ladders would tip that car over!"
I had to agree. ;-)
Saturday, February 16, 2008
president's day weekend in a nutshell
This weekend I:
- Have a husband in Seattle with a case of pinkeye.
- Met a little girl who William says is his girlfriend...she is adorable and her name is Miranda. We were waiting for Mexican takeout when she came up behind us. William seems smitten.
- Watched William's basketball team play in the championship game today. They placed second. We went to Zaxby's to celebrate.
- Sent Jordan off on a girl scout badge day from 8 am until 5:30 pm.
- Made a baby gift
- Am debating about going to the shower where that baby gift belongs...if you had three kiddos to take along with you WWYD? (It's an adoption shower for someone who joyfully adopted a three year old and that is why they are encouraging people to bring children.)
- Saw Jordan practicing volleyball just because she enjoys it.
- Am tired from all the emotional and physical requirements of this week.
- Feel content about everything we did in regards to my Grandfather.
- Am looking forward to worshiping tomorrow morning.
- Will attempt to finish the laundry pile.
- Can't wait to see William begin his soccer practice on Monday afternoon.
- Can't decide about attending the yearly homeowner's meeting for our neighborhood since a babysitter is involved for my sanity.
- And finally, hope that Jordan and her friend don't stay up too late Sunday night. She is looking forward to having a little sleepover.
I'm glad it is a four day weekend!
- Have a husband in Seattle with a case of pinkeye.
- Met a little girl who William says is his girlfriend...she is adorable and her name is Miranda. We were waiting for Mexican takeout when she came up behind us. William seems smitten.
- Watched William's basketball team play in the championship game today. They placed second. We went to Zaxby's to celebrate.
- Sent Jordan off on a girl scout badge day from 8 am until 5:30 pm.
- Made a baby gift
- Am debating about going to the shower where that baby gift belongs...if you had three kiddos to take along with you WWYD? (It's an adoption shower for someone who joyfully adopted a three year old and that is why they are encouraging people to bring children.)
- Saw Jordan practicing volleyball just because she enjoys it.
- Am tired from all the emotional and physical requirements of this week.
- Feel content about everything we did in regards to my Grandfather.
- Am looking forward to worshiping tomorrow morning.
- Will attempt to finish the laundry pile.
- Can't wait to see William begin his soccer practice on Monday afternoon.
- Can't decide about attending the yearly homeowner's meeting for our neighborhood since a babysitter is involved for my sanity.
- And finally, hope that Jordan and her friend don't stay up too late Sunday night. She is looking forward to having a little sleepover.
I'm glad it is a four day weekend!
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
saying goodbye
It was a sad weekend for our family. We got the call on Friday that my Grandfather was fading fast with fluid in his lungs, low blood pressure, and low oxygen levels. Friday was spent in a frenzy trying to get packed and in the car. We raced over to North Alabama and made it to witness the last 20 minutes of his life after we said good-bye. It was as if he waited for me to get there and then he was able to leave this earth....a very powerful moment. My Grandfather was 88 years old and just three weeks shy of his 89th birthday. For the past 8 years he has been a stroke patient. Somehow his inner strength showed through the set of circumstances he was given. There have been so many close calls over the years, but in almost miraculous fashion he has pulled through while others who were seemingly stronger -- roommates and friends -- have passed on. On Friday it was quite evident that this was his time to depart. His body had just literally worn out.
We spent most of the weekend making funeral plans and comforting my mother with kid antics. She is an only child and it is quite a lonely place to be when both parents are gone. She is one of the last in her family. Keep her in your prayers as she makes the adjustment from caretaker back to some sense of normalcy.
I came to quite the realization over the weekend. The sovereignty of God is alive and present in my life. The weekend was packed with events all weekend -- basketball tournaments, special valentine's events with our church friends, girl scout meetings and activities, a husband traveling on business -- but all that faded away once we decided to go be with our family. I had very clear plans to travel next weekend to visit my family, but God had other plans.
We spent most of the weekend making funeral plans and comforting my mother with kid antics. She is an only child and it is quite a lonely place to be when both parents are gone. She is one of the last in her family. Keep her in your prayers as she makes the adjustment from caretaker back to some sense of normalcy.
I came to quite the realization over the weekend. The sovereignty of God is alive and present in my life. The weekend was packed with events all weekend -- basketball tournaments, special valentine's events with our church friends, girl scout meetings and activities, a husband traveling on business -- but all that faded away once we decided to go be with our family. I had very clear plans to travel next weekend to visit my family, but God had other plans.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
creative writing 101
We had teacher conferences today. First was Jordan's and then came William's conference. Both seem to successfully march to the "beat of their own drummer" and we had mostly positive comments. In the package of papers the teacher gave us was some insight into how Jordan thinks. I found it hilarious.
The assignment was to write a persuasive letter. No instruction was give to the content, but the form had to be 100% correct no matter who you were writing to or what your cause was in the letter. Most letters contained pleas to parents to vacation at Disney or a request to the teacher for more recess time. Here is what Jordan wrote for her persuasive letter:
Monday, October 29, 2007
Dear Mrs. James,
I need to get rid of my horrifying fleas. There are way too many of them, and I get more each day. Please help me get rid of my fleas!
Constant exposure to fleas is proven to have consequences. For one, I have seen rotting dog carcasses with fleas climbing over to eat them. I hate to say it, but fleas carry disease and are quite gross. They have been known to carry West Nile Virus to people all over the world. There might be over one million fleas on my body, and they could all be carrying disease!
My friends have turned their backs on my fleas and me. There is no way that I can survive without them. I am becoming lonely, and there is no one to play with. I wish that I could get them to come back!
The fleas have conquered me, please help! The fleas hurt badly, and I can't get up! The fleas have bitten my fur coat to shreds. I can't move, and I want to die. They are always on my case and I can't get them off my tail.
I hope to be on my way to the vet soon, and to be well and home again.
Please feel my urgency,
Sugar Cookie (a handwritten signature)
Sugar Cookie
Confused? Grossed out? The letter is from a dog to it's owner asking to go to the vet. I immediately asked what books they had been discussing in class and the teacher assured me that this was a totally out of the blue sky idea for Jordan. Can anyone guess which Jordan enjoys writing about more -- fiction/fantasy or reality??? Bueller?
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
just a little snow
This afternoon it began snowing. Not the heavy duty Maryland type snow, but snow nonetheless. The kids were pleased beyond belief. The hope that maybe school would be cancelled tomorrow. We actually made it to midweek services tonight and then they got to have a snowball fight with their friends there. No matter what happens tomorrow I think tonight was a good one. To be honest, I really didn't want to drag out in the mess. Dave is in Seattle and I am a one woman show this week. I'm glad I went. Nothing like a little good fellowship and a snowbattle.
Basement update: The tile floor is done! I cannot believe the amount of work that has been done in just a few days. By Friday I hope to have all the drywall and painting finished. Then we have a six week wait for the cabinets. It's so exciting to see it come together after the mess.
Monday, January 14, 2008
hooray
Hooray indeed. Today was the first day of contractor invasion for our basement. Remember the catastrophe which happened after Halloween? Well it's finally being repaired. We started out with one contractor who seemed like a great guy, but we had to chase him all over the place to finalize our dealings. The holiday distractions (His, not ours) seemed to be the final straw. It was during that time that we decided to contract the work out ourselves piece by piece. We are generally good at home improvement projects, but the scale and need to get this area back in working order after the initial mess caused us to realize that it would take a looooong time for us to do the project for about the same cost as the sub-contractors could do the job. In reality I think we are going to end up with a much nicer basement area for us to enjoy.
The cats are totally freaked. Dave is hearing about all of this long distance since he is on a business trip to Seattle this week. Finding work time may be a little rocky this week, but I'll be thrilled to have the majority of the yuck out of our basement. Now, does anyone have an idea of what kind of sofa material works well to ward off cat hair?
- Drywall is being repaired.
- Tiles are replacing some nasty carpet and should solve our kid and cat mess issues.
- The old bathroom tiles are being replaced with the same ones in the playroom.
- The bathroom mirror comes down so we can paint behind it and replace it with a framed mirror.
- New cabinets and countertops are going into the bathroom and also in the new kitchenette wall we created in the playroom.
The cats are totally freaked. Dave is hearing about all of this long distance since he is on a business trip to Seattle this week. Finding work time may be a little rocky this week, but I'll be thrilled to have the majority of the yuck out of our basement. Now, does anyone have an idea of what kind of sofa material works well to ward off cat hair?
Sunday, January 06, 2008
me and my mii
It's a week into the new year and we are only two days away from the start of school again. We've had a good break together...and played a lot of wii. A lot. It is so much fun. Dave and I have been sneaking around to play more while the kids are sleeping at night. Apparently we are able to get our record breaking scores after we have no distraction. The active nature of the wii gaming is so much fun. There are not many games where you can sit and relax. That's good. (Jill, you inspired that mii photo...does it look like me?)
This afternoon our house is alive with kids. For days I've been trying to reorganize the girl's room and do catch up on all the things that get pushed aside during our normal schedule. I've still got light years to go, but there is a load of clothing and other things I've sorted through which will have new homes. My motivation was to have the house in good order so that Jordan could easily have a friend over at the spur of the moment or we could host friends for a casual dinner without too much fretting. Today I finally resigned myself to the fact that the break would be over soon and my kids needed to play with their buddies here at the house -- clean or not. Funny thing is that the kids don't seem to notice either way. I'll keep trying to complete my projects, but I'm reveling in the fact that Jordan and William are enjoying their neighborhood friends today.
I've had a lot on my mind lately. I got a diagnosis from and endocrinologist right before Christmas which has sent me reeling. We are still in the middle of testing, but it seems that the blood loss which occurred during Grace's birth did permanent damage to my pituitary gland. Right now I have more questions than answers and to be honest I've been in a fog since the news. It's really a good thing to be on the path to an explanation and yet if I think too much about it I become overwhelmed. I'm drawing on my faith and friends to pull me through this one. Say a prayer to give me some mental strength right now. I feel blessed to have found a doctor with the tenacity to search down my problem. Now I need strength to deal with the answers.
Saturday, December 29, 2007
today was a good day
Today we visited the Fernbank Museum of Natural History with the kids to see the exhibit, Frogs: A chorus of color. It's the first time Grace ever remembers being there. She was a babe in arms the last time we were there for William's 3rd birthday treat. It was so awesome to see all three kids making connections and enjoying the dinosaurs and natural science exhibits. We actually decided to place membership today so we can go back for more. We also saw an IMAX movie called The Alps about a man who was trying to kill some old family ghosts by re-climbing the mountain which his father died upon.
We at an early dinner at The Varsity. An Atlanta classic overflowing with health food choices. LOL Truly, it is a regional favorite that everyone must try once. I recommend a dog sideways, ring one, and a F.O. Go to this link to translate Varsity talk. What'll ya have? You had better know before you step up to the counter because ordering is serious business.
We also made a final decision to purchase a replacement for our current dishwasher. The dishwasher which came with this house has to be the loudest builder installed appliance in the world. Last year it got recalled and we've been hobbling along trying to decide what to do about it. The recall only gave $150 to replace it, but it was obvious that the appliance was on its last leg and would need to be replaced anyway. So today we bought a really nice stainless elite model from Sears. (The replacement had to be a Kenmore to get credit.) I am oh-so-excited about the 45 decibels of sound. That means I can run the dishwasher anytime instead of at night among other things. Want to know what concerned William? He wanted to know if it was quiet enough to play Star Wars on the Wii while the dishwasher was running.
I'll catch up on the whole month of Christmas soon. Photo review coming soon.
We at an early dinner at The Varsity. An Atlanta classic overflowing with health food choices. LOL Truly, it is a regional favorite that everyone must try once. I recommend a dog sideways, ring one, and a F.O. Go to this link to translate Varsity talk. What'll ya have? You had better know before you step up to the counter because ordering is serious business.
We also made a final decision to purchase a replacement for our current dishwasher. The dishwasher which came with this house has to be the loudest builder installed appliance in the world. Last year it got recalled and we've been hobbling along trying to decide what to do about it. The recall only gave $150 to replace it, but it was obvious that the appliance was on its last leg and would need to be replaced anyway. So today we bought a really nice stainless elite model from Sears. (The replacement had to be a Kenmore to get credit.) I am oh-so-excited about the 45 decibels of sound. That means I can run the dishwasher anytime instead of at night among other things. Want to know what concerned William? He wanted to know if it was quiet enough to play Star Wars on the Wii while the dishwasher was running.
I'll catch up on the whole month of Christmas soon. Photo review coming soon.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
decisions of a fifth grader
Last night we wrestled with a hard decision. Jordan just got selected for the Science Olympiad team at school and this activity put us beyond the realm of reasonable activities. I know most of you with younger children are saying, "I have no problem limiting my child's activities to one or two." But honestly, you haven't gotten to the stage where there are so many things available to supplement your child's education. The closer you get to middle school the more this becomes an issue. All the things are good, your child has achieved in these areas making them part of the selection process, and most are tied to school honors activities.
We've stayed with Girl Scouts since 1st grade. It is the one continuing activity which has lasted through so many stages and there are so many positives to it for a girl's self esteem. Jordan has participated in School Chorus since the first opportunity in third grade. She has an award winning director and this is an excellent opportunity to learn musically without taking piano lessons at this time. Music is a true love for Jordan. In 4th grade we added Drama and Volleyball. Drama is another passion for Jordan. My once overly outgoing girl has become more reserved with age and so Drama helped keep her self awareness at a positive level. Volleyball is just a great activity -- and goodness knows she needs something non-academic and physical for her health and mental health. And finally there is the monthly meeting of the School Book Club. Jordan is an avid reader so this is an enjoyable non-stressful meeting for her. So if you are counting that is five activities:
Girl Scouts
Chorus including the instrument practices and honors chorus slots she obtained.
Drama Club
Book Club
Volleyball
(and you must also take into account the activities and services we participate in as a family at church.)
Because most of the school activities were directly after school I did not have to shuttle too much to make the lesson or practice. Sometimes it involved a carpool type pickup, but nothing too difficult. Science Olympiad is a BIG commitment. Huge. Everything builds up to competitions which happen in the spring.
Finally, this morning about 20 minutes before the 6:55am Science Olympiad meeting, Jordan decided to drop Drama and keep Science Olympiad. It was a painful decision. She had just been cast in a play and although final scripts had not been distributed, she was excited about that role. I attended the SO meeting this morning and then later called her Drama teacher to explain. I've offered to help Jordan participate in Drama camps or perfomances this Summer and I think that helped the decision for her. Dave and I both tried to help her reason through all the logic involved. It was painful to watch the process and the true sorrow she felt for things she loved. Dave's feeling was that we were heavy on the fine arts part of activities. He is right about that, but so often these activites have been a good balance from the academics which Jordan faces at school. I think she made a good decision. I also think we are in for a lot of extra work and support with this activity. Still, how wonderful to have the opportunity as a girl to excel in science.
Really, this 'growing up' thing is not as simple as it once seemed.
We've stayed with Girl Scouts since 1st grade. It is the one continuing activity which has lasted through so many stages and there are so many positives to it for a girl's self esteem. Jordan has participated in School Chorus since the first opportunity in third grade. She has an award winning director and this is an excellent opportunity to learn musically without taking piano lessons at this time. Music is a true love for Jordan. In 4th grade we added Drama and Volleyball. Drama is another passion for Jordan. My once overly outgoing girl has become more reserved with age and so Drama helped keep her self awareness at a positive level. Volleyball is just a great activity -- and goodness knows she needs something non-academic and physical for her health and mental health. And finally there is the monthly meeting of the School Book Club. Jordan is an avid reader so this is an enjoyable non-stressful meeting for her. So if you are counting that is five activities:
Girl Scouts
Chorus including the instrument practices and honors chorus slots she obtained.
Drama Club
Book Club
Volleyball
(and you must also take into account the activities and services we participate in as a family at church.)
Because most of the school activities were directly after school I did not have to shuttle too much to make the lesson or practice. Sometimes it involved a carpool type pickup, but nothing too difficult. Science Olympiad is a BIG commitment. Huge. Everything builds up to competitions which happen in the spring.
Finally, this morning about 20 minutes before the 6:55am Science Olympiad meeting, Jordan decided to drop Drama and keep Science Olympiad. It was a painful decision. She had just been cast in a play and although final scripts had not been distributed, she was excited about that role. I attended the SO meeting this morning and then later called her Drama teacher to explain. I've offered to help Jordan participate in Drama camps or perfomances this Summer and I think that helped the decision for her. Dave and I both tried to help her reason through all the logic involved. It was painful to watch the process and the true sorrow she felt for things she loved. Dave's feeling was that we were heavy on the fine arts part of activities. He is right about that, but so often these activites have been a good balance from the academics which Jordan faces at school. I think she made a good decision. I also think we are in for a lot of extra work and support with this activity. Still, how wonderful to have the opportunity as a girl to excel in science.
Really, this 'growing up' thing is not as simple as it once seemed.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
bridges, natives, and thanksgiving
First, I have a photo from our family Thanksgiving gathering in Alabama. This photo is of Grace and Alana (her cousin who is five weeks older) outside of my parent's home. Can you tell how much fun these two have together? They are constantly laughing and giggling through the day. We get asked if they are twins when we are out together because they seem so connected. Just one of the million reasons I have to be thankful.
I really should post more often. These catch up posts are stressful. The past few weeks have been extremely fast paced. I can't believe I declared October the busiest time of the year for our family. November 2007 may have just surpassed that mark. No complaints though. Mostly good things have happened this month.
Dave went out of town on business for two weeks. We missed him horribly, but I can honestly say that we appreciate him more than ever now. During that two weeks I accepted a part time position with our church and managed to make it to all the pre Thanksgiving school activities. I've enjoyed my new job. I am helping manage and market some projects which include several counseling centers and mission efforts. My manager is actually my minister. That's been a little different to the other jobs I've held. The flexibility is beautiful...and with our crazy family schedule it seems the right fit right now. I struggled with wanting to work a fast paced position in an advertising or media agency downtown, but honestly I could have barely made it to pick up everyone before bedtime. Traffic is a bear around here so I really count this new job as a blessing. I'm hoping to take a few extra contracts from time to time.
One of Jordan's classes held a Bridge Breaking Competition. It was truly one of the most exciting school events I have been to in a long time. Each "company" of four built a bridge out of toothpicks and wood glue. It was mounted on a board in a certain way which allowed the teacher to hang a bucket off of the center of the bridge. The teacher then added sandbags of 2 lb., 1 lb., or half pound increments. Another teacher kept up with the results on a big tally sheet. We were all gathered around in the media center watching each team's creation reach the breaking point. One held 4 pounds. Several held 17 or 18 pounds. And the highest was 25.5 pounds...until Jordan's team, The Bridge Busters, managed to hold 38 pounds! The teacher ran out of weights at 33 pounds and makeshift weights had to be used for the final verdict. It was so suspenseful. If you look very carefully in this obscure photo you will see Jordan in a red t-shirt with her back to the camera and the famous bridge between two chairs in the background.
The next day William's kindergarten group celebrated with a Thanksgiving Feast. In addition to the thanksgiving food served in the lunchroom his class made butter, bread, cranberry cubes, and pumpkin pie together. They were all so cute in their Indian vests. William choose Little Fox as his Indian name. (And yes, that is a corndog on his plate...apparently it was the popular alternative offered that day. I can't ever recall having a choice in my old school lunchroom, can you? Especially on Thanksgiving!)
Did I mention that Grace fell while we were at William's basketball practice and needed three stitches? Dave missed every bit of that excitement. Never a dull moment, right? ;-)
I really should post more often. These catch up posts are stressful. The past few weeks have been extremely fast paced. I can't believe I declared October the busiest time of the year for our family. November 2007 may have just surpassed that mark. No complaints though. Mostly good things have happened this month.
Dave went out of town on business for two weeks. We missed him horribly, but I can honestly say that we appreciate him more than ever now. During that two weeks I accepted a part time position with our church and managed to make it to all the pre Thanksgiving school activities. I've enjoyed my new job. I am helping manage and market some projects which include several counseling centers and mission efforts. My manager is actually my minister. That's been a little different to the other jobs I've held. The flexibility is beautiful...and with our crazy family schedule it seems the right fit right now. I struggled with wanting to work a fast paced position in an advertising or media agency downtown, but honestly I could have barely made it to pick up everyone before bedtime. Traffic is a bear around here so I really count this new job as a blessing. I'm hoping to take a few extra contracts from time to time.
One of Jordan's classes held a Bridge Breaking Competition. It was truly one of the most exciting school events I have been to in a long time. Each "company" of four built a bridge out of toothpicks and wood glue. It was mounted on a board in a certain way which allowed the teacher to hang a bucket off of the center of the bridge. The teacher then added sandbags of 2 lb., 1 lb., or half pound increments. Another teacher kept up with the results on a big tally sheet. We were all gathered around in the media center watching each team's creation reach the breaking point. One held 4 pounds. Several held 17 or 18 pounds. And the highest was 25.5 pounds...until Jordan's team, The Bridge Busters, managed to hold 38 pounds! The teacher ran out of weights at 33 pounds and makeshift weights had to be used for the final verdict. It was so suspenseful. If you look very carefully in this obscure photo you will see Jordan in a red t-shirt with her back to the camera and the famous bridge between two chairs in the background.
The next day William's kindergarten group celebrated with a Thanksgiving Feast. In addition to the thanksgiving food served in the lunchroom his class made butter, bread, cranberry cubes, and pumpkin pie together. They were all so cute in their Indian vests. William choose Little Fox as his Indian name. (And yes, that is a corndog on his plate...apparently it was the popular alternative offered that day. I can't ever recall having a choice in my old school lunchroom, can you? Especially on Thanksgiving!)
Did I mention that Grace fell while we were at William's basketball practice and needed three stitches? Dave missed every bit of that excitement. Never a dull moment, right? ;-)
Saturday, November 10, 2007
stand by or stand with?
I've been offline for a few days due to Comcast and other comedy of errors. One blog post which struck me tonight in my reader was this excellent piece by Mike Cope (see link at right). History is an excellent teacher to the present day and this is a fresh look at both old testement and new testement ideas.
Obadiah
Published by Mike Cope on November 8, 2007
The story of Obadiah begins in Genesis 25 with the birth of the twins: hairy (Esau) and heel-grabber (Jacob). Rebekah was told that two nations were in her womb — more, I think, than most women are wanting to hear. The older would serve the younger.
Fast forward to Deuteronomy (2:1-8; 23:7) and you learn that this relationship still mattered centuries later when the Israelites were about to enter the Promised Land after the exodus. The Edomites (descendents of Esau) were to be treated respectfully, because they were relatives.
This area of Edom was just south of the Dead Sea — about 70 miles north-to-south and just 15 or 20 miles east-to-west. It’s a hilly area that felt to the residents like secure protection.
One famous Edomite in the New Testament was (apparently) Herod the Great. His father, Antipater, was an Idumean, or an Edomite. Herod married into the Jewish royal family and kept the Jewish law. Ok, some of the Jewish law. He had minor lapses like the propensity for killing off family members.
Despite the warnings to treat the kinsmen Edomites well, when you move ahead many centuries later, the Edomites are roundly condemned. Check out Psalm 137, Lamentations 4, Ezekiel 25 and 35, and Jeremiah 49.
There’s something vile the Edomites did when Neduchadnezzar and the Babylonians destroyed Jerusalem. But what was that?
It’s in Obadiah that we find out.
For the most part, their sins were not sins of commission but of omission. While Jerusalem was attacked, they kept their distance from the south, up in their mountainous crags, and cheered on the defeat of Judah. They are the nanner-nanner-nanner people of the Bible.
Their central offense appears to be that they stood by when they should have stood with their relatives being attacked.
If that’s true, then could this, the shortest book in the Old Testament, be a piece of prophetic literature that has a fresh word for the church today?
It invites us to ask how we are standing by rather than standing with. Wasn’t that what offended so many religious types about Jesus? He kept stepping into the messes of the world. He refused to stand at a distance condemning.
The conflict at his home town synagogue (Luke 4:16ff) was over his examples of how God wants his people to move beyond their own safe, gated communities. His story of the Rich Man and Lazarus (Luke 16) highlights the evil of standing by while another is in need. (Note that there’s no evidence the rich man was actively doing harm. He just stood by.) When he talked of judgment (Matthew 25), the key questions weren’t about obtuse questions of doctrine but about standing by or standing with. When you see him naked, thirsty, hungry, and in prison, what is your response?
Obadiah says that the moutains of Seir would not protect the Edomites: “‘Though you soar like the eagle and make your nest among the stars, from there I will bring you down,’ declares the Lord.”
Apparently God takes this seriously. His final evaluation isn’t based on the edict: “Do no harm.” It goes beyond that: when we see Lazarus . . . when we see the person beaten along the road to Jericho . . . when we see someone hungry, hurting, or lost — what is our response?
Do we stand by? or stand with?
Obadiah
Published by Mike Cope on November 8, 2007
The story of Obadiah begins in Genesis 25 with the birth of the twins: hairy (Esau) and heel-grabber (Jacob). Rebekah was told that two nations were in her womb — more, I think, than most women are wanting to hear. The older would serve the younger.
Fast forward to Deuteronomy (2:1-8; 23:7) and you learn that this relationship still mattered centuries later when the Israelites were about to enter the Promised Land after the exodus. The Edomites (descendents of Esau) were to be treated respectfully, because they were relatives.
This area of Edom was just south of the Dead Sea — about 70 miles north-to-south and just 15 or 20 miles east-to-west. It’s a hilly area that felt to the residents like secure protection.
One famous Edomite in the New Testament was (apparently) Herod the Great. His father, Antipater, was an Idumean, or an Edomite. Herod married into the Jewish royal family and kept the Jewish law. Ok, some of the Jewish law. He had minor lapses like the propensity for killing off family members.
Despite the warnings to treat the kinsmen Edomites well, when you move ahead many centuries later, the Edomites are roundly condemned. Check out Psalm 137, Lamentations 4, Ezekiel 25 and 35, and Jeremiah 49.
There’s something vile the Edomites did when Neduchadnezzar and the Babylonians destroyed Jerusalem. But what was that?
It’s in Obadiah that we find out.
For the most part, their sins were not sins of commission but of omission. While Jerusalem was attacked, they kept their distance from the south, up in their mountainous crags, and cheered on the defeat of Judah. They are the nanner-nanner-nanner people of the Bible.
Their central offense appears to be that they stood by when they should have stood with their relatives being attacked.
If that’s true, then could this, the shortest book in the Old Testament, be a piece of prophetic literature that has a fresh word for the church today?
It invites us to ask how we are standing by rather than standing with. Wasn’t that what offended so many religious types about Jesus? He kept stepping into the messes of the world. He refused to stand at a distance condemning.
The conflict at his home town synagogue (Luke 4:16ff) was over his examples of how God wants his people to move beyond their own safe, gated communities. His story of the Rich Man and Lazarus (Luke 16) highlights the evil of standing by while another is in need. (Note that there’s no evidence the rich man was actively doing harm. He just stood by.) When he talked of judgment (Matthew 25), the key questions weren’t about obtuse questions of doctrine but about standing by or standing with. When you see him naked, thirsty, hungry, and in prison, what is your response?
Obadiah says that the moutains of Seir would not protect the Edomites: “‘Though you soar like the eagle and make your nest among the stars, from there I will bring you down,’ declares the Lord.”
Apparently God takes this seriously. His final evaluation isn’t based on the edict: “Do no harm.” It goes beyond that: when we see Lazarus . . . when we see the person beaten along the road to Jericho . . . when we see someone hungry, hurting, or lost — what is our response?
Do we stand by? or stand with?
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